Edo Guber: PDP’s Asue Ighodalo Says His Campaign Was Driven by Desire to Serve

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the recently concluded Edo State governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, has expressed that his aspiration was never about gaining power but stemmed from a genuine desire to serve the people of Edo State.

Ighodalo made this statement in a heartfelt message of appreciation to the people of the state on Monday, following the election results.

In his address, Ighodalo expressed deep gratitude to the electorate, stressing that his vision was focused on creating prosperity and a brighter future for all residents of Edo.

“My good people of Edo State, in all things, we must first give thanks to God.

We are grateful for the gift of life, health, and your overwhelming love and support throughout this journey,” Ighodalo said.

He particularly commended the bravery of those who came out to vote on September 21, despite various challenges including rain, threats, and intimidation.

He described the voters’ resilience as the “bedrock of our democracy,” noting that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.

“You are the true heroes of this moment, and your courage will never be forgotten.

Your sacrifice paves the way for a brighter Edo State, one built on integrity and justice,” he said.

Reflecting on his campaign, Ighodalo reiterated that his aim was never about personal ambition or power but to serve the people and work towards shared prosperity.

“My aspiration has never been about power. It has always been a genuine desire to serve and create prosperity for all in Edo State, for every man, woman, and child,” he explained.

Ighodalo recounted his campaign efforts, visiting wards and local governments across the state, where he shared his vision and listened to the people’s dreams.

He said these encounters had strengthened his resolve to fight for a better future for the state.

Addressing his supporters, he thanked them for their dedication, time, and belief in his cause.

He acknowledged the hard work that went into the campaign and the strong support they received from voters.

“We ran a great campaign together, and your support was clear. Sadly, our progress was abruptly halted by those who don’t care for the people or the future of Edo,” Ighodalo lamented.

The PDP candidate described the election day, September 21, 2024, as a “dark day” for democracy, accusing certain elements of orchestrating a “brazen theft” of the people’s mandate.

However, he called on his supporters not to lose hope, stressing that the fight for truth and justice would continue.

“September 21, 2024, will be remembered as a dark day. The brazen theft of our mandate and the silencing of your voice was a grave injustice. But we must not be discouraged.

Evil’s temporary victory can never erase the truth. Our quest for prosperity is just beginning, not ending,” he said.

Ighodalo urged the people of Edo State to remain united, engaged, and determined, assuring them that he would continue to stand by them in the pursuit of a prosperous and just future for all.

“Together, we will create a pathway to prosperity for all in Edo State,” he concluded.

Ighodalo’s remarks come after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of the Edo governorship election.